Adhesions

Adhesions are scar tissue that forms between two structures or
organs inside the body that are not normally connected to each other. This
tissue may bond to nearby surfaces because of inflammation, surgery, or trauma.

For example, scar tissue can develop on the abdominal organs after
any abdominal surgery or as a result of inflammation or infection in the
abdominal area. Abdominal adhesions can cause pain, blockage, or other
problems, depending on where they are located.

If adhesions cause pain and other problems, surgery may be needed
to cut the scar tissue and separate the structures or organs, although
adhesions may recur after this surgery.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Current as of

March 12, 2014

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated:
March 12, 2014

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
information.